CVE-2007-5787 in Micro Login System
Summary
by MITRE
Micro Login System 1.0 stores sensitive information under the web root with insufficient access control, which allows remote attackers to download a file containing a password via a direct request for userpwd.txt.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5787 resides within the Micro Login System version 1.0, a web-based authentication framework that fails to implement proper access controls for sensitive data storage. This flaw represents a critical security oversight where the system places password-related information in a location accessible to all web users without adequate authorization checks. The specific file affected is userpwd.txt, which contains credentials that should remain protected from unauthorized access. This configuration violates fundamental security principles regarding the separation of sensitive data from publicly accessible web directories.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward direct request mechanism that allows remote attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures. When an attacker sends a direct HTTP request for the userpwd.txt file, the web server responds with the file contents without verifying the requester's authorization status. This represents a classic case of insecure direct object reference vulnerability, where the system fails to validate access permissions before serving sensitive data. The flaw stems from inadequate file permission settings and missing access control mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized retrieval of credential files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with immediate access to authentication credentials that can be used to gain unauthorized access to the system. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and demonstrates how insufficient privilege management can lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to escalate their privileges, move laterally within network environments, or conduct further reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability also supports techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under credential access tactics, specifically targeting the collection of credentials through unsecured file access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate exposure and underlying architectural issues. The primary remediation involves relocating sensitive files outside the web root directory and implementing proper access controls using web server configuration directives. Security measures should include setting appropriate file permissions, implementing authentication checks before file access, and establishing monitoring for unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security audits to identify similar misconfigurations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices such as the principle of least privilege and defense in depth, where multiple layers of protection work together to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.